All about the Warwan Valley Trek.

One of the best-kept secrets of Kashmir, Warvan Valley is cradled by the barren, mountainous landscape of Ladakh, and the verdant expanses of Kashmir valley! It brims with beauty and adrenaline, the likes of which find no match anywhere else. The trail weaves through some of the remotest and untouched paths of Kashmir, leaving you miles of undisturbed beauty to cherish. The path runs over glaciers, moraines, and narrow treacherous ridges, stretching over 20 km. The entire trek is spread over a mind-boggling 100 km and requires nine days of strenuous trekking. Granted, the challenging terrain of the trek may seem daunting, but the rewards more than makeup for all the fatigues. Everything else, every other emotion pales when miles and miles of untouched, unmarred beauty unwinds before you, leaving you truly fumbling for words. The trek is a paradise of adventure lovers, and demands excellent fitness levels, along with one or two prior experiences of high altitude trekking.

Max. Altitude – 4,405 meters

Duration – 8 days

Level – Challenging

Highlights

1. Wander into the heart of Kashmir valley, tucked away in some of the least explored parts of Kashmir. Enjoy the solitude and tranquility it grants you.

2. The trek stretches over a couple of icy glaciers, making the entire experience stand out. So many glaciers packed in one single trek is something few other treks can boast about.

3. Witness the beautiful culture of the rustic mountain villages which seem to have been forgotten by time.

Trek Itinerary

Day 1 : Drive from Srinagar to Panikhar

Pick up from Srinagar at 06:00 AM. The king drive to Panikhar is arguably the most beautiful villages of Kashmir, steeped in Zanskari culture. The village houses are beautiful, and the locals usually have their own fields for agriculture. There are not many shops here, but you can stock up on last mixture supplies. Explore around the village for the rest of the day, admiring the towering mountains and misty valleys that the village is home to. Overnight stay at Panikhar.

Time Taken: 10 hrs drive

Day 2 : Trek from Panikhar to Sumdo

We begin trekking post breakfast. Begin trekking along the market road, and through a bridge over the raging river Panikar Nala. Cross the bridge and stick to the left hand side trail which climbs uphill along the river. A few minutes later, post completing the formalities at the local check post, we continue further on a dirt track that snakes through the heart of the valley. About 3 hours later, the trail swerves around and ions up to a breathtaking little meadow where you can halt for a short while. Resume the mild ascend. The trail narrows down and leads you soon to Sumdo, your campsite for the night.

Altitude: 3,764 m

Distance: 15.6 km

Time Taken: 5 – 6 hrs

Day 3 : Trek from Sumdo to Kalapari

A relatively short trek today. We begin by crossing a handful of streams and reach the other end. After that, we stick to the right of the river and begin trekking through the left hand side valley. Soon, another bunch of streams awaits to take us across to the other end of the basin. The trail now evens out a little, and a wise verdant meadow pops up, which commands fantastic views of Sumdo and Denora. Continue trekking through the meadow and upwards to Kalapri meadows. Set camp here, ride beside a gurgling stream. Altitude: 3,917 m

Distance: 3 km

Time Taken: 1.5 hrs

Day 4 : Trek from Kalapari to Kaintal via Lomvilas Gully

Since the trek today is very long, we begin early in the morning. Despite the snow and ice sections that await us today, technical equipment aren’t really required. Begin trekking on the trail that leaves Kalapari, and makes for the moraines up ahead. The Kalapari summit and glacier soon loom into view. The trail eases out now, and soon a glacial lake lapped in greenery can be seen being mothered by a large glacier on the right. The trail unfolds along the lake and is spread over the glacier for another kilometer. Soon, we reach the other end and trek around a few crevasses to reach the moraines. After another hour, we move up to yet another glacier that leads us to the icy moraines guarded by the massive Kalapari summit. Soon, the trail heads over to a ridge and brings us to expansive snow fields. Keep the valley to your right, and begin descending over snow-laden slopes. There soon rises another glacier featuring a massive grey crevasse which truly befuddles the senses. It is one of the most unmatched sights that you will ever encounter. Cross another couple of glaciers, and begin trekking towards Kiantal Valley over moraines and boulders. As you approach the valley, the trail evens out. Set camp for the night.

Altitude at different points : 3,505 m; 4,404 m

Distance: 21 km

Time Taken: 11 – 12 hrs

Day 5 : Trek from Kaintal to Humpet

Another longish day of the trek, the rail follows along the river, and through several clear streams en route Humpet. Cross a river basin, and trek towards a vast meadow where horses can be seen grazing. From here, the trail forks into two, and we take the one that climbs to a grassy knoll. Climbing over another such hump brings us to the beautiful grasslands of Sar. The trail now veers off to the right, and we bid our goodbyes to the Kaintal Glacier which falls out of sight. The basins here are short but rocky. After about 2 hours of trekking, we finally see the Humpset campsite beckoning us. Admire the contrasting blend of Ladakh’s rugged, barren landscape and the refreshing greenery of Kashmir. We camp overnight at the grasslands of Humpet.

Altitude: 3,322 m

Distance: 19 km

Time Taken: 6 hrs

Day 6 : Trek from Humpet to Sukhnai

We leave behind the campsite of Humpet, and make for the pristine grasslands and the rustic village of Sukhnai. The trail follows a mountain ridge with stunning views go Gujjar huts and the valley right below. The Kaintal Nala can also be seen gushing through the gorges. We enter the tree line, decked up with tall trees of silver birch. Soon, the trail follows a descending path towards the valley, lined by coniferous trees on either sides. After about 2 hours, we continue towards a spot down as Police kotha, from where the trails for Sheshnag and Amarnath are clearly visible. It is now that you have entered the actual Warwan Valley. As we begin descending towards the valley, the trail tapers down and shadows the snaking river below. The trail is quite trick here, but nothing that cautious steps can’t overcome. Now, another stream awaits you, and the trail then enters another tricky section which gives you the first views of Sukhani. Soon the trail dips towards the river and leads to a quiet little clearing on its side which is the perfect spot for lunch. Post lunch, we resume descending towards Sukhani, and the trail widens up. Another 2 -2.5 hours land us at the stunning campsite of Sukhani.

Altitude: 2,804 m

Distance: 19 km

Time Taken: 8 hrs

Day 7 : Trek from Sukhnai to Chaudraimanr

Day 8 : Drive from Chaudraimanr to Srinagar

The tour package inclusions and exclusions at a glance.

Inclusions in the package:

Accommodation: All accommodation on the trek will be on twin sharing basis in Tents or Homestays. Any accommodation in a hotel/guest house/hostel (if mentioned in the itinerary and not mentioned in exclusions) will be in a 2-3 star accommodation unless mentioned otherwise.

Trek Leader and Guides: A team of an experienced and certified Trek Leader, as well as a professional guide, will accompany you for the trek.

Services of a Professional Trekking Team: A team of an experienced Cook, Camp Staff, Porters/Mules will accompany you for all the arrangements on the trek.

Meals: All Meals on the Trek are included. We will serve Vegetarian Indian food on the trek which will be cooked by our high altitude chefs. It will be a five meal plan including Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks and Dinner. You will be provided with clean mountain water from the streams to drink. You can carry water purification tablets if you deem necessary but we advise otherwise.

Trekking and Safety Equipment: All the camping equipment such as Tents, Sleeping bags, Toilet Tents, Dining Tent, Mattresses, and other things will be provided by us and we guarantee the quality. Safety Equipment including Medical kit, Oxygen Cylinder, Oximeter, Crampons & Gaiters(if required) will be provided by us. We recommend you to bring your own sleeping bags if possible.

Permits and Forest Camping Charges: Only for Indian Clients, All the applicable trekking permits, Camping Charges, Forest Entry Fee etc will be paid by us. Foreigners have to pay these charges if not mentioned.

A Life Changing Experience: We assure you that by trekking in the Himalayas you will have a life changing experience and we will do everything we can to provide you with the best services and make your venture in the wild an unforgettable one.

Exclusions in the package:

GST and Other Taxes: The goods and services tax is not included in the price mentioned with the trek. They will be charged once you add the trek in your cart. They are subjected to change according to government rules of India.

Accommodation and Food in Srinagar: Food and stay in Srinagar are not included in the package. You can book your hotels or homestays in Srinagar, we can recommend a few good options.

Flights and Transportation: Flights or other means of transport is not included in the package. Transportation from home to Srinagar and vice versa is not included in the package. We can arrange a cab for you according to your requirements but you will be liable to pay for the same. Any expenses occurred during the journey are not included in the package cost.

Personal Trekking Equipment: Your Rucksack, personal clothing, shoes, trek poles, and other personal trekking gear is not included in this package. You have to bring your own gear according to that weather and difficulty of the trek.

Portage of Personal Bags(Offloading): We highly advise you to carry your own burden (your rucksack) but due to any reason if you wish to not carry your rucksack, we can arrange for a porter/mule to carry it. For this service, you will be charged over and above the trek cost. The charges for offloading vary with every trek.

Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance is not included in this package. We recommend you to have travel insurance before opting for such adventures.

Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses incurred (laundry, Bottled Water, Beverages, snacks, orders tea houses or dhabas, Tips for guides etc) are not included in the package.

Emergency Expenses: Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, bad weather, landslides, road conditions and any other circumstances beyond our control are not included in the package.

Anything not mentioned in Inclusions of the package.

Questions about the Trek

Whom is the trek for?

The trek falls into the ‘challenging’ category of treks, which naturally demands exceptional physical fitness, stamina and endurance. It is strongly advisable to have prior trekking experience of scaling at least 3,500 meters before you approach this trek, which means beginners should ideally stay away. Also, proper acclimatization is key here, which helps you better adjust to the high altitude and lower oxygen levels during the trek.

Which is the best season to attempt this trek?

July to September is an ideal season for this trek, as the weather conditions are considerably more pleasant and stable, as opposed to harsh winters.

How to reach Srinagar?

By Air The Srinagar Airport is well connected to the major cities of the country. Frequent flights ply from Delhi, Jammu, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh and Kolkata. By Rail The Jammu Tawi Railway station is the most convenient stop, from where frequent buses and cabs are available for Srinagar. By Road The Srinagar Bus Stand is well connected to Delhi, Chandigarh, and Jammu. Frequent overnight buses ply from these cities to Srinagar.

Had a very beautiful experience with team Trekmunk on Hampta pass trek. Team was professional specially Salman. Couldn’t get to meet cook and other staff but they were amazing. Would definitely recommend them.read more

It was a very good and adventurous trip where we passed the difficulties of chilling coldness,fog, rain,rocky mountains,thick glaciers,steep slopes,difficult terrains and in all this trekmunk guys helped us in every step..provided good and healthy food and proper tips to sustain this trek. Thanks and cheers for Trekmunk !!!read more

My first Himalayan trek (Hampta Pass) and it was well organised. The trek leader and support staff made sure that all the arrangements are spot on. The food was good, but they could have had some more options for pure vegetarian ( for people who do not eat eggs).
I would surely recommend them !read more

Had awesome experience with Trekmunk for trek to Hampta pass. It was a 4 day moderate level trek. The organisation of trek was very good. Trek leaders were very supportive and gave attention to each individual. Vegetarian food was served with soups and snacks. Overall a very good experience.read more

Had the best time ever!! The Trekmunk team was simply amazing. They took care of everything really well and were very well prepared for anything that came there way. They made sure that Hampta pass was a great experience for all of us :Dread more

Had a really great time with Trekmunk. The trek leads for the Hampta pass and Chandratal Trek were really helpful and understanding all through the 5 days.
Being my first trek, the experience was truly wonderful.read more

Went camping with them to Bhandarara, they organized it pretty well for us. They took care of all our requirements and also gave us the freedom to explore around and relax with few reasonable constraints. Can totally count on them.read more

This was my first ever camping experience and I'm sure that it couldn't have got any better. I lived every moment with a smile. In short it was magical and I wish to go for more trips like this.read more

So far, the best way to explore North east. It was a comprehensive tour which included offbeat trekking places , unique experiences like caving and jungle treks, along with some picturesque sight seeing places. The places of stay provided were comfortable. Overall, a great, fun filled experienceread more